Going back to work

PM rhetoric at odds with science

BORIS JOHNSON’S latest statement on the lifting of lockdown restrictions should be compared to the Prime Minister’s speeches in 10 Downing Street at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Then, Mr Johnson was invariably flanked by Professor Chris Whitty, the Government’s chief medical officer, and Sir Patrick Vallance, the chief scientific adviser.

And it was their calm authority – and clear communication – that led to the country being so compliant with the shutting down of the economy.

Yesterday both men, and their equally respected deputies and colleagues, were absent from 10 Downing Street when the Prime Minister set out new guidance for more people to return to work.

This is significant because it is clear that employers – and employees – are likely to take greater heed of the science, notably Sir Patrick’s assertion earlier this week that there is “absolutely no reason” to change the guidance that advises people to work from home wherever possible to help contain the virus.

It also differs from Mr Johnson’s rhetoric – namely the Government’s decision to “give employers more discretion” from August 1 – and allow staff to return work if it is deemed safe.

Yet, while both Sir Patrick and the Prime Minister couched their comments with various caveats, and recognise that each business has differing issues, Mr Johnson cannot claim to be guided by the science when the scientists no longer appear by his side at such briefings. And, far from providing clarity, the mixed messages now risk adding to the prevailing uncertainty at what is still a time of great unease for all.